East Dam - 2

The East Dam - 2 boat ramp provides convenient access to Carlyle Lake, Illinois' largest man-made lake, located on the Kaskaskia River near Carlyle. This day-use facility features two boat ramps and courtesy docks, making it well-equipped for launching kayaks, canoes, and motorboats. The ramp is noted as one of the best high-water launch points on the lake, ensuring reliable access even during varying water levels. From I-70, take State Route 127 south to Carlyle, then head east on William Road (which becomes Lake Road) and continue south to the day-use area on your left.

Carlyle Lake is a sprawling 26,000-acre reservoir ideal for paddlers seeking open-water recreation with a peaceful, sheltered setting only 50 miles east of St. Louis. The lake has no outboard motor size restrictions and accommodates both quiet paddling and motorized boating. Day-use amenities include picnic areas and a group shelter, with several campgrounds nearby (Dam West, Dam East-McNair, and Boulder) if you're planning an overnight trip. For questions about current conditions or facilities, contact the area office at 618-594-5253. The site is open year-round, offering paddlers a reliable access point for exploring the lake in any season.

Overview
Dam West Day Use Area is situated on the southern shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis, the area offers the peaceful retreat of a small town combined with the grandeur of Illinois' largest man-made lake.Recreation
The area provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the...

Overview
Dam West Day Use Area is situated on the southern shore of Carlyle Lake, a prime getaway for city-dwellers and families. Located 50 miles east of St. Louis, the area offers the peaceful retreat of a small town combined with the grandeur of Illinois' largest man-made lake.Recreation
The area provides fun both on the water and on shore. Boat ramps and courtesy docks are provided, and the vast lake allows for plenty of water sports. Fishing is a popular pastime, and the lake offers year-round varieties of fish such as bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, largemouth bass, freshwater drum, carp and walleye. There are multiple playgrounds on-site as well as a designated swimming beach. A multi-use biking and walking trail is located a short drive away at the dam.
Facilities
The day use area has two reservable picnic shelters that can accommodate up to 75 people each, as well as a boat ramp and fish cleaning stations. The facility has access to a marina and boat storage facility. Camping is available at the adjacent Dam West Campground.

Visitors can walk or bike across the dam to the Dam East facilities and McNair Group Area.
Natural Features
Created in 1967, the 26,000-acre lake is recognized as one of the nation's top ten inland sailing lakes and hosts several annual races and regattas.

Carlyle Lake is home to an array of wildlife that can be seen throughout the year. Its waters and shores are a resting spot for migratory waterfowl and other birds. There are six established Watchable Wildlife Sites with viewing towers open to the public around the lake.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (618) 594-2484.
Nearby Attractions
Carlyle Lake Visitor Center, located in the Dam West Recreation Area, has information available and nature exhibits on display, including a 215-gallon aquarium with native fish.

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